Buying A Computer

Six Steps & Tips

Six Steps to Buying a Computer

STEP 6: Select the software

STEP 5: Select additional hardware – the “extras”

STEP 4: Compare a few and select the best

STEP 3: Research computers that match your needs

STEP 2: Research computers in general

STEP 1: Analyze your needs

STEP 1:

Analyze Your Needs

What do you want to do with this computer?

Needs Assessment:

Make a list of all the tasks you want to accomplish.

Make a list of all the software you want to install.

This will have an impact on storage space, memory, and perhaps even type

of computer.

STEP 1:

Analyze Your Needs

Where are you going to use the computer?

In one place.

Example: At home. If you want to use files elsewhere, use email or a

flash drive.

Wherever I want!

Example: home, school, friend’s houses and the local coffee shop

STEP 1:

Analyze Your Needs

How long do you want the computer to last?

Plan on buying a system that will last you at least three years.

Make sure the system can be upgraded.

STEP 2:

Research Computers

Read to learn about what is available.

Sources Include:

Computer magazines

Newspapers

Online sources

Talk to friends, family members, co-workers

Get recommendations on certain systems or brands

Visit computer stores and play with demos and talk with

sales people.

STEP 2:

Research Computers

Advantages to doing research include:

Learn what is new out there – technology changes so fast!

For example, the iPad just came out in 2010 (followed by countless

tablets from other brands). What will they come up with next?!

Find out how much computers cost and what type of

computer matches your budget.

Find out the current trends.

STEP 3:

Research Computers That Match Your Needs

Step 3 is to merge the first two steps

You know your needs, you know about computers.

Now, which computer is for you?

Do you want a PC or Mac?

Do you want a desktop, laptop or tablet?

How much do you want to spend (including “extras” and software)?

In addition, be prepared for “Hidden Costs.”

Additional outlet for modem

Computer furniture

Paper & ink cartridges

Disks and disks holders

Special cords

Reference manuals on software

Etc.

STEP 3:

Research Computers That Match Your Needs

Where will you buy it?

Actual store, website, or catalog

Research the vendor’s reputation.

How long have they been in business?

Are they registered with The Better Business Bureau?

Do they have warranties?

Do they provide repair services?

STEP 4:

Compare a Few & Select the Best

Limit your search to

3-5 choices.

Use a system to

determine the best

one for you.

Some ideas:

Pros & Cons list for

each alternative.

Table with features and

check boxes.

STEP 5:

Select Additional Hardware – the “extras”

Think about your needs and all the additional items available.

Some to consider:

A special keyboard

A different mouse

A larger monitor

Microphone

Speech recognition system

Webcam

Speakers

Printer

Flash drive/Storage device

Protective case or bag

Special cords

Any others…?

STEP 6:

Select Software

Look over your needs assessment and decide what

software is necessary.

Make sure the computer you’re considering can handle

the software you want.

Check the system requirements label on the software.

Look for free software.

Sometimes software will come with a computer.

Macs offer a variety of programs preloaded on the computer.

There are increasingly more programs available online.

Example: Picnik is a free, online photo editor.

STEP 6:

Select Software

Once again, get some recommendations and opinions.

Read up on the latest products. Check to see what area

schools and colleges are using.

Talk with family, friends, and coworkers.

Is a program suite (a group of related programs

purchased together) right for you?

Some examples include:

Microsoft Office, which comes with Word, Excel, Publisher, and

PowerPoint.

Adobe Creative Suite, which comes with Photoshop, Illustrator,

InDesign, and a few others depending on the version.

TIPS

Buy a system that is compatible with one you use

elsewhere.

If your school/work uses PCs, a Mac may not be the best

choice for you.

Beware of buying used computers.

Just like used books or a used car, there may be some

unforeseen issues and possibly less support available.

Consider purchasing an on-site service agreement.

Once you’ve made your purchase:

Keep all original disks, manuals, license agreements and extra

materials in a safe place.

TIPS

Reduce your purchase’s environmental impact.

Consider buying equipment that meets the Energy Star power

consumption guidelines.

Parts of the computer will turn off after not being used for a period

of time.

Consider buying from local computer dealers or retail stores.